Bipolar disorder is among the most common mental health disorders. It is said to be a bridge between psychotic and mood disorders. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, bipolar disorder affects 5.7 million adults in the US every year.
It is further said that bipolar disorder is more common in men compared to women. Regardless of the number of cases of bipolar disorder, many people are still unaware of it. Well, here’s everything you need to know about bipolar disorder. Have a look:
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
First and foremost, you need to know about the symptoms of the disorder. Bipolar disorder comes in three different episodes, each has its own set of symptoms:
Mania
- Unusual talkativeness
- Distractibility and racing thoughts
- Decreased need for sleep
- An exaggerated sense of self or euphoria
- Increased agitation, energy, or activity
Hypomania
- Unusual creativity and productiveness
- Increased self-confidence and sense of self
- An increase in sexual appetite
- Higher irritability or rude behavior
- Being much more talkative and social than usual
- A powerful feeling of mental and physical well-being
Major Depressive Episode
- Sadness and low-energy
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- Visual hallucinations
- Feeling discouraged and inability to make decisions
- Appetite and sleep disturbances
Treatment Options for Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a little tricky to manage as lifestyle rehabilitation and medicines go hand in hand in its treatment. Once you’re almost recovered or the recovery has begun, you can move towards therapy.
Here is a detailed overview of treatment options for bipolar disorder:
Lifestyle rehabilitation
- Herbs and plants are important as they can instantly relieve anxiety and stress. Chamomile, passionflower, ashwagandha, purple space cookies, and ashwagandha are a few herbs with natural healing properties; thus, they work well to counter the symptoms of bipolar disorder.
- Exercise and meditation are crucial too. Exercise can increase the number of endorphins in your body, naturally eliminating stress and increasing energy levels. The same goes for meditation. It’s great for both physical and mental health.
Allopathic Medicines and Treatments
- Antipsychotic drugs are a must when it comes to bipolar disorder. It can combat symptoms like visual hallucinations and delusions that are pretty common in both mania and the major depressive episode of bipolar disorder.
- Mood stabilizers are also prescribed. As bipolar disorder brings along massive highs and lows of mood, having a mood stabilizer regularly is a must.
- Antidepressants are essential in case of major depressive episodes of bipolar disorder. It will relieve stress by altering the chemicals in the brain, saving you from further complications like suicidal behavior.
- Electroconvulsive treatment is usually the last resort and it’s only recommended in case of severe bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. It involves a brief electrical stimulation of the brain. The treatment is typically performed under anesthesia.
Psychotherapy
- Last but not least, psychotherapy is the last thing a person with bipolar disorder needs. It is usually prescribed when the patient has almost recovered. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is practiced in such cases that help change how your mind works and reacts to external stimuli.
The Bottom Line…
Bipolar disorder is not something to be taken lightly. In case you or any of your loved ones experience the symptoms of bipolar disorder, I suggest you consult a psychiatrist immediately. I hope it works out!